OCT2015 - Blood Tribe

TSINIKSSINI October 2015
October 2015
Published by Blood Tribe
Administration
COMMUNICATIONS Department
The Blood Tribe Administration Review
entitled ‘TSINIKSSINI’ is dedicated to the
sharing of information for the people of the
Blood Tribe. The magazine format features
news, stories, articles and an array of items
as our way of sharing what is occurring on
the Blood reserve and beyond.
We hope you enjoy your magazine and
invite any suggestions you may have in
improving our coverage on any number of
events and activities. The magazine will
be printed on a monthly basis and will be
distributed to various locations on-and-off
the reserve.
The magazine is free of charge.
The magazine is published by the Blood
Tribe Communications department and
is printed by Graphcom Printers (2011) of
Lethbridge.
The collection of information, photographs
and layout of the magazine is from the
Blood Tribe Communications department.
Reproduction of any story or use of
photographs must be requested in
writing and addressed to the Blood
Tribe Communications department. Any
unauthorized use of stories and photos
of TSINIKSSINI or from the Blood Tribe
Communications department may infringe
on tribal copyright laws.
We would like to acknowledge the Blood
Tribe Chief & Council and the people of the
Blood Tribe for your support.
Rick Tailfeathers: Communications
Director
Tom Russell: Communications
Writer
Myron Fox: Layout
Graphic Design
Tracy Weasel Fat
Photos/Stories
Published by the authority of Blood Tribe
Chief & Council
Box 60 Standoff, AB T0L 1Y0
ph: (403) 737-3753 FAX: (403) 737-2785
visit our website for more... www.bloodtribe.org
3.
Alberta Chiefs congratulate Prime Minister
4.
Kainaiwa Resources Inc.
5.
Treaty 7 Education Conference
6.
Kainai Wellness Center Brighter Futures Program
7.
Chief Calf Retires After 33 Year Career
8.
OldMan River Watershed Film Project
9.
Dept. of Health Recieve Fire Safety Training
10.
Kainai Community Kitchen Provides Meals
11.
Vanessa Stiffarm - 2016 Calgary Stampede Princess
12.
Strengthening Families Program
13.
Paved Loop Road and New Parking Lot
14.
Kainai Drug Misuse Prevention Committee
15.
Kainai Drug Misuse Prevention Committee
16.
Kainai Doctors Receive Awards
17.
Forage Processing Plant Fire
18.
Kainai Marketplace Groundbreaking
19.
Youth Wellness Center Ground Breaking
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Upcoming Events
Dr. Sue Christenson and Dr. Esther Tailfeathers, pictured here with
Chief & Council representative Lance Tailfeathers, were recently
honored by the University of Lethbridge’s Health Sciences for their
tireless effort in saving lives and battling drugs.
Front Page Photo by Tracy Weasel Fat
Photographers: Donald Cotton, Tracy Weasel Fat, William Singer III,
Gary Spiess, Mason Wolf Child.
Photo of Vanessa Stiffarm by Karyn Lee Portraits.
Makeup by Liz from Aria Studios.
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TSINIKSSINI øctober 2015
TRUDEAU SWORN IN AS 23rd PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA
Prime minister Justin Trudeau was officially sworn in on Wednesday, November 4, 2015.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau launched
a new era in Canada federal politics
Wednesday, November 4, 2015, as his
majority Liberal government took office
and a cabinet of political veterans and
rookie MPs was sworn in. Trudeau
appointed 30 members to his cabinet, half
of them women.
He has turned to experienced hands for
some of the most senior portfolios, while
also putting his trust in newcomers to run
other departments. First-time MP Catherine
McKenna, from Ottawa Centre, has been
appointed environment minister. The other
new Liberal star from the area, Orléans MP
Andrew Leslie, a former lieutenant general
in the Canadian military, was not appointed
to cabinet.
As expected, the swearing-in ceremony
turned into a spectacle, which Liberals are
hoping will provide an immediate contrast
to the Conservatives’ style of governing.
Members of the new cabinet gathered in
downtown Ottawa and took a bus to Rideau
Hall, rather than individual limousines as
Tory ministers used.
Under sunny skies, the team then debarked
at the gates to the estate and walked up the
tree-lined lane to the governor general’s
residence. They were met by hundreds of
cheering Canadians who were invited to
gather outside the residence for the event
and watching the swearing-in on a large TV
screen outside.
Trudeau had promised a slimmed-down
cabinet. In forming his team, he had to
balance new faces with experienced hands,
geographic and minority representation,
and an equal number of men and women.
He also had no choice but to leave some
extremely experienced and qualified
Liberal MPs out of cabinet. As a result,
some surprises — and bruised egos — can
be expected in coming days
On Tuesday evening, Trudeau issued
a statement promising a new way of
governing. He said that during the
campaign, he made a personal commitment
to bring a new tone and “sunny ways” to
the government in Ottawa.
“On October 19, Canadians spoke loudly
and clearly, that they want a government
that will bring real change – in both the
things that it does, and the way that it does
them,” he said. “Our platform promised
a new, ambitious plan for a strong and
growing middle class. And you rightly
expect us to fulfill that promise.
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“The new Canadian government will work
together with our allies, with our provincial,
municipal, and territorial partners so we
can deliver the real, positive change that
we promised you.”
Meanwhile, some ministers will have little
time to celebrate before getting down to
work.
The new immigration minister, for
example, faces an immediate challenge
after Trudeau promised to resettle 25,000
Syrian refugees by the end of the year.
Refugee advocates say that is unrealistic.
Trudeau will either need someone who can
either make it happen, or explain why the
government won’t keep its promise.
The new environment minister will have
little time to get up to speed on his or her
file before being thrown into the deep
end at next month’s UN climate change
negotiations in Paris, and expectations
are high in Canada and abroad for new
leadership on the issue. Meanwhile, the
Indigenous people are expecting quick
action on the Truth and Reconciliation
Commission recommendations
Story by Brent Scout
TSINIKSSINI October 2015
KAINAIWA RESOURCES INC. REMAIN OPTIMISTIC
DESPITE A DOWNTURN IN GLOBAL OIL MARKETS
Despite a global downturn in the price of
oil, the Kainaiwa Resources Inc. is busy
planning for the future in the promotion
of long-term strategies and investments.
Dexter Bruised Head, Blood Tribe Council,
and Chair of KRI, says proper planning is
necessary in monitoring current trends.
“We were planning a lot of development in
oil and gas, now, the prices have taken a
turn,” he says. “And, when prices begin to
rebound, we can pick up where we left off
as far as drilling activity is concerned.”
With current oil prices per barrel hovering
around $45 a barrel, and with the Canadian
dollar at around 68 cents U.S., Bruised
Head says it works to their advantage.
“All sales are in the U.S. dollar and with
the stronger U.S. dollar, it works to our
benefit,” he says. “That makes it more
feasible to drill in Canada, and especially
on the reserve.”
Prior to the downturn in global oil markets,
the KRI operation was deemed healthy
as many of the contractors were of First
Nations origin, however, Bruised Head
remains optimistic in the return to higher
employment.
“If we calculated approximately how many
people are employed with KRI throughout
the year, the numbers are as high as 800
employees,” he says. “These include the
contractors and others involved. Also,
contracts in the millions of dollars are
awarded to local contractors from the
Blood reserve. So, we look forward to the
return to more normal operations.”
One question that is often asked of KRI is
who benefits from the oil and gas revenues?
“We all benefit in one way or another,”
says Bruised Head. “We have Financial
Transfer Agreements, Core and non-Core
funding and it’s the non-Core funding we
take care of because the government is
not funding a lot of those services. These
include Recreation, funeral costs, elders
programs and utilities and many shortfalls
the departments and entities experience,
these are picked up by our oil and gas
revenue.”
Clayton Blood, General Manager, KRI,
explains the revenue process after oil is
discovered. “Indian Oil & Gas Canada
must verify all royalties generated from
any oil well on the reserve,” he says. “And
once that is complete, then the monies are
sent to the tribe’s capital account in Ottawa
where it’s kept until the tribe requests use
of the money. This is usually to pay for
the services that are not funded by the
government. We (KRI) get funded by the
band, not the government.”
Today, with a complete entity management
and employee realignment, beginning with
General Manager Clayton Blood, KRI is
moving forward in a careful but deliberate
manner as it prepares for a return to a more
stable global oil economy.
The oil wells situated at the north end of the Blood reserve continue to pump in anticipation of higher oil prices.
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Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI øctober 2015
Treaty 7
to Aboriginal students. To achieve better
success is to have more control over their
education initiatives.
Education Conference
The keynote address at the conference
was made by , Ojibway journalist Richard
Wagamese, a successful writer of a number
of books he has penned. His message that
storytelling is a key factor in education of
Native students. He shared his childhood
experience and some of the tragedies in his
life which gave him strength to become a
successful writer.
Richard Wagamese, noted Ojibway writer.
David Eggen, Alberta Minister of Education, addresses audience.
The Treaty 7 Education Conference hosted
by Kainai Board of Education in Calgary
Oct. 13-14, was attended by educators
and leadership from the TsuTina, Stoney,
Pikunii, Siksika and Kainai. This gathering
is an annual event which brings together
all the groups to dialogue on issues
concerning Aboriginal education and to
present information on developments
within their areas. This year’s conference
was atteneded by over 600 participants
and conference presenters which made the
conference a success.
A number of high profile guests were
invited to address the conference: Alberta
Minister of Education, David Eggen who
indicated there would be continued support
for programs that presently exist with
little increase considering the ecomomic
restraints that have been put on the Alberta.
Government. He indicated his support
would continue for the Treaty 7 education
groups and praised their acheivements.
Assembly of First Nations Grand Chief,
Perry Bellegarde was also a guest speaker
looking at the issues regarding the Truth
and reconciliation recommendations made
to government and some of the factors that
have resulted in the social disarray we see
today among First Nations. Colonization
and implementation of the Indian Act
in 1876 which effectively placed Treaty
nations on Reserves with near complete
oppression by church and government
and resulted in the institutionalization of
Native children in Residential Schools.
To see some reconciliation happen there
needs to be changes made in education
with increased funding and development of
cirricullums that are relevant
5
Assembly of First Nations Grand Chief, Perry
Bellegarde
Story by Rick Tailfeathers
TSINIKSSINI October 2015
BRIGHTER FUTURES AND BUILDING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
KAINAI WELLNESS CENTRE—A DIVISION OF
BLOOD TRIBE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
October 21, 2015. The Brighter Futures
Coordinator is Verona Tail Feathers.
We will be having quarterly community
information sessions with the next InterAgency meeting scheduled for January
28, 2016, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the
Recreation
Multipurpose
Building.
Everyone is welcome.
Agenda: “Where are we at with the
Prescription Drug Abuse crisis?”
The objective of this program is to create
a working relationship that will address
social issues through a collaborative
approach; to carry out the planning and
networking process with representatives of
all departments and entities and the general
public. The overall goal is to improve the
quality of life of Blood Tribe members;
to increase prevention strategies, increase
in community knowledge, and increase
of skill with a cultural and traditional
base; to increase working capacity and
partnership agreements with consistency
and commitment of all departments and
entities; to provide cultural awareness
activities with the incorporation of the
Blackfoot culture. All departments need
to share their mandates and to see how we
can reduce the social problems. One of
the sessions addressed prescription drug
abuse; there are many other indicators of
our social issues. Through community
collaboration we can begin to identify
solutions. Currently, we are accepting ideas
through proposals for the new fiscal year.
These categories are: community wellness,
active parenting, youth therapeutic, suicide
intervention, mental health therapy, solvent
abuse and family violence. All proposals
will be reviewed by a Committee to see if
they will strengthen the community families
by addressing alcohol, drug abuse, solvent
abuse, violence and many other areas of
concern. You may address your ideas to:
Verona Tail Feathers, Brighter Futures
Coordinator P.O. Box 229, Standoff, AB,
TOL 1YO, PHONE: 403-737-3883, 403737-8618, email: [email protected] Fax:
403-737-2036.
Group photo with Verona Tailfeathers and participants.
A bag lunch filled with a healthy snack was available to participants.
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Submitted by Verona Tailfeathers
TSINIKSSINI øctober 2015
CHIEF CALF RETIRES AFTER 33 YEAR CAREER
Denis Chief Calf, surrounded by family and friends, acknowledges everyone’s support and well-wishes.
It was a night filled with laughter and
gratitude as long time employee Denis
Chief Calf shared the announcement of his
retirement after 33 years of service with the
Blood Tribe. On May 20, 2015, Chief Calf
made it official – and now, in his retirement,
he describes his decision as peaceful.
“I’m happy where I am right now,” he said
of his initial early days as a retiree. “Let me
sum it up in one word – peace.”
Getting used to a slower pace is a far cry
from the days he served his people in a
number of occupations; most recently as a
member of the Blood Tribe Department of
Health. During his employment, Chief Calf
was often one of the first to arrive at the
scene of an accident or in other situations
in which lives were lost or in critical
conditions.
“I never realized it, but going to work, we
never know what we’re going to see,” he
shared as an employee with the Emergency
Medical Services. “I used to tell my fellow
employees there’s never a dull moment
here. You’ll see things here that we never
thought we’d see.”
At his retirement celebration, a number
of people who have either worked with
Chief Calf, or who have witnessed his
professionalism, spoke of their gratitude as
a result of his actions. One such individual
was Marilyn Standing Alone who credits
Chief Calf for saving the life of her
daughter.
“I was literally yelling in the streets asking
for help,” she recalled after realizing her
then two-year-old daughter had accidently
consumed a poisonous liquid. “It was
Denis who was the first to arrive. He took
over completely and even had the time to
console me, to settle me down, as he cared
for my girl.”
Today, the young girl Chief Calf was
fortunate enough to save has made her
parents proud in bringing to life four young
children whom Standing Alone and her
husband and family adore.
“My grandchildren are a blessing,” an
emotional Standing Alone said. “My family
and Denis’s family have become very, very
close. We’ll always appreciate what he has
done for us.”
Throughout the celebration, emcee
Travis Standing Alone introduced many
individuals who congratulated Chief Calf.
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Among those included: Oscar Cotton,
Cecelia Blackwater, Floyd Provost, Mike
Bruised Head, Franklyn White Quills,
Lance Tailfeathers, Marvin Many Chief,
Murray Three Persons, Renata Goodstriker,
Norbert Blackwater Sr., Roxanne White
Quills, James Medicine Crane, Jason Abrey
and Leon Smallboy.
Chief Calf’s aunt Cathy Hunt and daughters
Evelyn, Rachael and Sarah presented
him with a cake. At the conclusion of the
ceremonies in which performer Adrianna
Weasel Head sang, and after Kiitoki’s
hypnotic and entertaining performance,
Chief Calf acknowledged those he treasures
dearly.
“I want to thank my wife Mary, who I
love with all my heart and my children for
surprising me with this celebration. My
wife told me we were going to have our
pictures taken,” he said. “I never had so
much fun. I’m so happy many of my family
and friends came here. It all means so much
to me.”
Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI October 2015
OLDMAN GOES TO HOLLYWOOD
STOPS AND VISITS THE BLOOD RESERVE
--The Oldman Watershed Film Project-#oldmangoestohollywood.
This
past
summer, the Oldman Watershed Council
has been producing a film that will become
a signature communication piece for
southwest Alberta. The core message is:
“We are all downstream.”
It will not be a typical educational film.
Rather, it will create a space for people
to have an experience and draw their
own conclusions through presentation
of the story. The goal of the film is to
communicate clearly where water comes
from, where it goes and ultimately what
happens in between. This is important in a
watershed with great stakeholder diversity.
About 10-15 minutes in length, this film will
be presented at exhibitions and trade shows;
schools; Watershed Planning and Advisory
Council summits; municipal, county
and provincial government meetings; in
conservation and environmental arenas;
and more. It will be made openly available
on our web site.
This film will be shown to audiences
throughout the watershed - and beyond
- with the intent to educate, inspire and
contribute to a stronger sense of community.
It will portray southern Alberta’s diversity
and entrepreneurship via watershed use.
Following the growth of the region from
the mid-1700s through to 2060, it will use
historical photos, interactive maps, and
spectacular footage of the people, places
and landscapes.
Anna Garleff, who is the Communications
Specialist with the Oldman Watershed
Council wants to thank the Blood reserve
for its participation: “The story of the
watershed begins and ends – not with the
river – but with its people. First Nations
are traditional keepers of the water and
today have an important voice in watershed
management and health. Thanks to William
Singer, we were able to meet with people on
the reserve, both young and old; expert and
novice, who have important perspectives
on current issues.”
Filming for the Blood reserve took place
in August and September with a schedule
that covered many hours, off-road miles
and not to forget the scenic beauty that was
captured along with the interviews/stories
of the participants involved in the two-day
shoot.
I would like to thank the community
members, employers and elders who gave
their time to share their stories and give the
viewer an insight to life on the reserve.
There is a stark contrast of how water is
used and how it is supplied. Many First
Nations reserves have inadequate water
quality of water and many – including the
Blood – have to pay to have it hauled in.
Yet all around us, that is not the case. In
municipalities and off reserve, non-native
homes have access to clean and clear
water. How ironic that they can open a
tap and have clean running water, while
the water that surrounds us flows to others
downstream. We’re surrounded by water,
but don’t have access or even the funding
to utilize the life giving qualities of water.
Is water a right or a privilege?
After all, this is our story, too. It is up to
us to show the way forward for future
generations of people who depend on the
Oldman River watershed for work, play
and the quiet enjoyment of the unique
beauty of southern Alberta.
Over the years, the OWC has had incredible
support from its many volunteers and
donors and are truly grateful for the interest
their work is receiving from the Blood and
Piikani Nations.
The OWC mandate has much in common
with the environmental stewardship goals
of industry, tourism, farming, ranching and
recreation, to name a few. Many people and
organizations are working hard to promote
progressive water management practices
with the inherent awareness that: “Water is
vital to life, the environment and the social
and economic wellbeing of communities”.
This presumes a common understanding
of the challenges and opportunities. We
believe this film project will increase that
common understanding exponentially. The
Oldman Watershed Council is thanking
decision-makers/thinkers/community
builders and supporters who have been a
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part of this exciting project!
To be continued in the next issue of
Tsinikssini.
For more information check out:
OWC website:
http://oldmanwatershed.ca/
Follow on Facebook:
h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m /
OldmanWatershedCouncil
See the trailer:
http://oldmanwatershed.ca/film-trailer/
Submitted by: Oldman Watershed Council
(OWC) & William Singer III
Write a guest blog and tell your story!
Email:
[email protected]
Blood Elder Lena Russell
Blood Councillor Mike Bruised Head
Blood Youths Okina and Jet
Submitted by William Singer
TSINIKSSINI øctober 2015
BLOOD TRIBES DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH EMPLOYEES
LEARN AND PRACTISE FIRE AND SAFETY PROTECTION
Each of the Health Department staff had the opportunity to learn how to use the fire extinguisher.
The Blood Tribe Department of Health
and
Emergency
Services
recently
made a request to the Office of the Fire
Commissioner Alberta for training on the
use of fire extinguishers. Tom Little Child,
First Nations Liaison Field Officer, said the
two-day training session was useful for the
employees and also to fulfill requirements
related to accreditation.
“People are going to learn how to use a
portable fire extinguisher, they’re going to
know where it is, they’re going to know
how to use it, they’re not going to be scared
to use it anymore,” he explained. “And also,
for the Blood Tribe Department of Health,
who are accredited under Accreditation
Canada, one of their requirements to keep
their accreditation is to show they are doing
training. So, portable fire extinguisher
training is one of the requirements.”
Other requirements include maintaining
evacuations from the buildings and other
safety precautions for employees and the
public. Little Child said they are available
upon request to provide training.
“We do the training in two different ways.
I prefer the on-hands process using gas and
diesel, but many jurisdictions don’t like
us using these flammables. But, we also
have an electronic prop we use as well,” he
said. “This exercise takes the fear from the
employees from actually using the fire extinguishers to put flames out.”
The theme from the Fire Prevention Week, ‘Hear The Beep, Where You Sleep,’ was
directed to informing the public to ensure the batteries in the smoke alarms are constantly
changed.
The BTDH employees were each given the opportunity to use the fire extinguishers on an
actual fire in a designated safety area on the parking lot.
A burning mattress was used to simulate a real fire situation.
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Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI October 2015
KAINAI COMMUNITY KITCHEN PREPARE TO FEED
CHILDREN WHO OFTEN HAVE NO FOOD AT HOME
Have you ever looked into the eye of a
child who is starving? And their main
concern is to get a meal for themselves and
their younger siblings. This is happening
on our reserve today. As a result, a pilot
program initiated by Public Service Pillar
Committee, Blood Tribe Chief & Council.
Family & Community Support Services,
with the help of the Kainai Food Bank,
Blood Tribe Social Development, Blood
Tribe Management, Kainai Children
Services and Blood Tribe Recreation
discussed how to help children who are
struggling to get a meal at home. The plan
of action is to start up a community kitchen
in the core areas of Moses Lake, Standoff
and Lavern in November.
Kainai Community Kitchens is a needed
resource with the belief the initiative will
go far. Tia Fox Manager, Food Bank, said,
“ Food security is a issue world-wide and
people do not realize that we are dealing
with these issues in our community. I
did not realize it was such a big issues
until I started working for the Family &
Community Support Services and the Food
bank. It was a really big eye opener once I
started working for the department. I think
it is going to be a community collaborate
Initiative for us to identify this issue that
we are dealing with. When you are lacking
in your necessities, that is when we start
having our social problems. We need to
start addressing these needs and taking
care of one another because that is our
traditional way. We need to get back to
our roots and start helping our community
members and neighbours.”
In moving forward with the plan, Social
Development employed Katie Eagle
Speaker as the Coordinator through the
Another Way Youth Initiative Program. A
Thanksgiving meal was then organized on
October 11, 2015, at the Kainai Multipurpose
building, where approximately 96 plates of
food were given out to the children and
their families. Everyone there enjoyed a
turkey dinner with all the trimmings.
These same children utilize the
multipurpose Centre because it is a fun
place for them to play and socialize. But,
in many instances, the children often
stick around after department and entity
meetings in the hope of getting the food
that was leftover, for example: sandwiches,
chips, cookies, juice and whatever was
available.
Kainai Community Kitchens goal is to
hire three assistants program to help the
coordinator by utilizing existing programs
from Blood Tribe Social Development and
the BTEST Job Placement for the different
Community Kitchens. After the three
assistants are employed, the Community
Kitchen will be open on Wednesday,
Saturday and Sunday from 5 to 7 p.m.,
with the staff coming in from 4 to 8 p.m.
to prepare for the meal to feed the children
and to clean up afterwards.
There are times when the Coordinator
anticipates many children to feed and are
asking for volunteers to offer their support
in meeting this need.
For more information on the Kainai
Community Kitchens or to Volunteer
contact Family & Community Support
Services at 403-737-2888 and ask for Tia
Fox or Katie Eagle Speaker to pick up
volunteer forms and schedules.
Many children in unfortunate circumstances will now be fed.
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Story by Tracy Weasel Fat
TSINIKSSINI øctober 2015
STIFFARM NAMED MISS CALGARY STAMPEDE
INDIAN PRINCESS REPRESENTING TREATY 7
will be over one-hundred events we will
be attending during the ten days of the
stampede,” she said. “I’ll be meeting many
people both locally and internationally
and will be almost everywhere. I’m really
looking forward to representing the First
Nations people and the Calgary Stampede.
It’s such an honor.”
During her reign, Stiffarm will be visiting
many events and attending all Treaty
7 powwows, but is looking forward to
meeting children and the youth in their
educational environments.
“It’s actually a requirement to attend
all Treaty 7 powwows which I’m really
excited about,” she shared. “I want to visit
as many schools as I can and to encourage
the students that if you put your mind to
something, you can accomplish it, you can
do it.”
Stiffarm poses in traditional regalia.
It was an intense time of preparation and
practice, but it was all worthwhile as
Vanessa Stiffarm from the Blood Tribe was
named the 2016 Calgary Stampede Indian
Princess. Born and raised in the rivervalley in a beautiful location near the Fort
Whoop-up area on her grandparent’s ranch,
Stiffarm grew up participating in both the
contemporary and traditional lifestyles
that helped define the path the talented
and personable young woman would walk
upon.
Stiffarm is the daughter of Evelyn Killsback
and John Stiffarm and granddaughter
of Roger and Cathy Hunt and Lenore
Stiffarm. Her culture and traditions are
heavily influenced from both her parents
who are deeply involved in the powwow
circuit, among other pursuits, while her
grandparents on the Hunt side are spiritual
elders and grandmother Stiffarm is a
retired professor having taught at many
universities in both Canada and the United
States. Also, a cousin of hers, Chelsea
Tailfeathers, who currently resides in New
York City, was the former Top Canadian
Native Model. With such a strong and
supportive background, Stiffarm seems
poised to carry her responsibilities with
pride and integrity in sharing her rich and
vibrant culture and traditions.
“I have a major support system behind me
to make sure I succeed in my role,” she
said. “It’s overwhelming at times, but I’m
learning. I want to thank everyone for their
support—my family, relatives, Treaty 7,
all the sponsors and especially the Calgary
Stampede. The people of Treaty 7 and all
First Nations have so much to offer and I
will certainly make every effort to greeting
the people from around the world to share
such a beautiful way of life.”
“I love to dance, not only traditional, but
contemporary styles too,” she said. “And I
really enjoy meeting people. I learn a lot
from the many people I meet and hope I
can share their knowledge with others as
well.”
As a representative of Treaty 7 which
includes the Blood, Siksika, Piikani, Stoney
and Tsuu T’ina First Nations, Stiffarm will
play a prominent role in greeting visitors
from around the world who visit the famed
Calgary Stampede and, most particularily,
the Indian Village.
Vanessa Stiffarm poses with Pearl Long Time Squirrel and Trevor Panzac.
“During the Calgary Stampede, there
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Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI October 2015
NEW PROGRAM BRINGS FAMILIES TOGETHER
TO CELEBRATE AND BUILD UPON STRENGTHS
A new and innovative program is being
offered to the Blood Tribe community
called
the
Strengthening
Families
Program. Vanessa Buckskin, one of two
Program Managers for the program,
says the program, “Brings parents and
children together to help them build on
their existing family strengths. It brings
parents out of the darkness of parenting
by teaching simple concepts like love and
understanding. The program helps to open
doors of communication between parents
and their kids.”
What is the Program About?
Many First Nations communities have
run this program in Canada. The program
began on the Blood Tribe in September
2015 at the Multipurpose Building. It
brings families together for 3 hours a week.
First families are served a good meal and
encouraged to eat together and socialize
with other families. Then parents and youth
kids are separated into groups for a fun
1-hour skill building session.
In a separate room, facilitators work with
youth, teaching them to consider their
choices and future goals, and to listen to and
respect their parents. Many parents have
noted positive changes in their children’s
attitudes toward them.
teachings and stories to the lessons being
taught will make the program richer.
Blackfoot adaptation makes the program
ours. We need this program to highlight
our values, our ceremony, our way of life.
Our families will relate more to material
that comes from what they know,” says
Bromley. Harriett Heavy Runner is one
of the Elders facilitating the program
and providing guidance on Blackfoot
adaptation.
Partnering for Success!
This program would not be possible with
the guidance, knowledge and support
of Ramona Big Head, Principal of
Tatsikiisaapo’p Middle School. Ramona
has played a key role in making the program
a success. She has suggested facilitators
for the program like Clarence Blackwater
and Verda Weasel Head, and provided
The last hour of the program brings parents
and kids together to practice what they
have learned. Then families go home to
practice these skills with some tools to
do so. For example, one week families
were given board games and asked to
play together. Every second week families
are provided food for several meals and
recipes and asked to cook them together.
Parents in the program say because of the
Our Time activities their family visits more
and has better communication. Parents and
grandparents in the program also say that
they are enjoying being together at home
and having that time together.
Blackfoot Adaptation
Both Tisha Bromley and Buckskin are
working to culturally adapt the program
in time for its next launch in January
2016 in Standoff. “We are adapting the
program with the direction of the Elders
in the community. Adding our language,
guidance on the logistics of setting up the
program. The team is incredibly grateful
for her support. The program team is also
grateful for the guidance and support they
have received from Chief and Council,
the Kainai Board of Education, Blood
Tribe Social Development, Blood Tribe
Recreation staff, the satellite Library staff
at the Multipurpose Building, and the
University of Lethbridge.
Next Steps
The team will launch the Blackfoot adapted
program in Winter 2016 and is currently
seeking parents and grandparents caring
for children aged 3-5 years or 12-16 years
who would like to be part of it. For more
information please contact Vanessa at
[email protected] or Tisha at
[email protected].
Tisha Bromley and Vanessa Buckskin.
12
Submitted by Vanessa Buckskin
TSINIKSSINI øctober 2015
PAVED LOOP ROAD AND PUBLIC PARKING LOTS
PROVIDE SMOOTH ACCESSIBILITY AND SAFETY
This photo is taken after the development of the new parking lot at the Chief Shot on Both Sides building.
The paving of the Loop Road and Blood
Tribe Administration parking lot phase is
complete with only minor painting left.
The road leading around the townsite and
to the major public facilities have been
smoothed over with asphalt and a pathway
leading down to the Kainai Sport Centre
and convenient stores ensures public safety.
Chief & Council approved the paving
process in 2014 with the contract awarded
to Brooks Asphalt & Aggregated Ltd.
Murdock Concrete from Medicine Hat
assisted with the curbs, dividers and
sidewalks while the Milling was performed
from a company in Leduc, AB. Hamilton
Painting from Lethbridge did the line
painting while the original Parking Lot
Design & Drainage was submitted by
U.M.A. Engineering of Lethbridge. The
project managers for the construction was
Amec Foster Wheeler Environment &
Infrastructure, c/o Associated Engineering
from Lethbridge.
There are 97 parking stalls in the front
parking lot with 124 parking stalls behind
the BTA. This includes 8 parking stalls
dedicated for person’s with disabilities
which brings the number of available
parking, at full capacity, at 211 stalls.
The Blood Tribe Administration, built in the early 70s, and officially opened in 1973, had
a paved parking lot. However, years of daily usage and vehicles of all sizes and weight,
contributed to the eventual erosion. The newly paved loop road and parking lots at both
the BTA and Blood Tribe Department of Health provide a more safe and road-friendly
environment for both the public and the vehicles.
This is a photo before the parking lot was paved and divided.
13
Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI October 2015
BLOOD TRIBE PRESCRIPTION DRUG STRATEGY
CONTINUE TO CREATE AWARENESS ON DRUGS
I was hired April 1, 2015 to coordinate
the Prescription Drug Strategy Project by
implementing the Public Health Strategy
for Reducing Prescription Drug Misuse and
Illicit Drug Use in the Kainai Nation which
was developed by the Kainai Drug Misuse
Prevention Committee (Core Group).
The Public Health Strategy was adopted
from the “Take A Stand Frame Work”
developed by the Chiefs of Ontario and is
based on 4 pillars to initiate Community
Action Planning. The 4 pillars are Healthy
Relations, Continuum of Care, Working
with Physicians and Healthy Living.
The first and foremost plan of action is
reducing the Overdoses and the Fentanyl
Related Deaths in the community. The
strategic plan called for implementing a
community wide Awareness Campaign
that included planning and hosting the
Blood Tribe United Conference which was
held June 15 & 16, 2015. The Conference
was successful and attended by 800 plus
community members the conference
included creating an awareness of the
difference between Prescription Drug
Misuse and the fatal fake Oxy 80’s that
are illegally being distributed and sold
throughout the community. The conference
further educated the community in the use
of the naloxone kits which in an antidote
to reverse the affects of an overdose in
users until they reach the hospital. Both
Dr. Tailfeathers and Dr. Christenson were
instrumental in dispensing the naloxone
and providing the necessary training in
the community. I would estimate the
naloxone kits have save 6 to 10 lives in
the community to date. We are currently
working on updating the information on
the naloxone kits. The Prescription Drug
Project can provide the training, however,
the naloxone kits can only be distributed by
a doctor.
The Conference provided Hope and
Direction to the community in addressing
the fentanyl crisis and provided and
confirmed that as a community we have to
address the addiction related issues from a
psychological trauma origin.
In May, 2015 Dr. Sue Christenson initiate
the Suboxone treatment out of the Lavern
clinic which is a substitution treatment for
opioid drug dependence which includes
those who use the fentanyl laced illegal oxy
80’s. The community did see a decrease in
the fentanyl related deaths and overdoses
in May and June; however the fatalities
and overdoses are on the rise again. The
Suboxone treatment has assisted a number
of individuals to stabilize their lives and
regain self worth for a future of recovery.
The strategic plan further included the
need to implement a number of avenues to
assist and support community members to
address addiction related issues:
1.
The Blood Tribe Help Line is
operational on a 24/7 basis and provides
support and information to individuals and
families who want information on where
to go for help or just need to talk. All
information is confidential and anonyms
should an individual wish not to provide
their name. The Help Line is not linked to
the police department or any other agency
however information is provided on the
referral process for treatment and the
resources available in the community that
can assist in addressing addiction related
issues.
2.
The Critical Drug Response Unit
– is a vehicle donated to the Prescription
Drug Project by the Blood Tribe Police.
The Unit currently provides transportation
to approximately 14 individuals daily and
24 on Saturday to the individuals who have
chosen the Suboxone treatment. In addition
Blood Tribe Medical Transportation
provides transportation and support to
individuals on the Suboxone and Methadone
treatment for opioid related addictions. The
vehicle also circulates in the community to
provide information and education on the
help line, overdose prevention and future
plans include strengthening the outreach
measure to connect community members
with programs as they become available
and harm reduction methods.
3.
Educational messaging - July
and August the Prescription Drug Project
focused on conducting community
information distribution on creating an
awareness of the Blood Tribe Help Line,
overdoses prevention, prevention and
intervention awareness campaigns on
prescription drug misuse and the lethal
consequences of the oxy 80 use. In
14
addition the Blood Tribe Communications
department are in the final stages of
erecting billboards in the community that
will address the issues of prescription drug
misuse and illicit drug abuse. As part of
the community outreach activities a survey
was completed in each of the communities
of Moses Lake, Standoff and Lavern to
identify addiction related issues specific to
each community.
4. Training
opportunities
for
frontline and help line workers which
included preparation to work the help
line, pharmacology, first aid /CPR, suicide
intervention, cultural based community
development training, non-violent crisis
intervention and harm reduction education.
5. Implemented
the
Narcotic
Anonymous meetings in the community of
Standoff however the attendance has been
low so we now have re visited and will be
offering community, healing and recovery
circles in each of the communities of
Standoff, Moses Lake and Lavern.
6.
Traditional counselling services
– the project can provide access for
individuals and families to receive
counselling and support from members of
the Peacemakers and other Elders in the
community upon request. This service
needs to be strengthened as to date we
have not had any requests.
Currently the Project has 2 staff members
the coordinator and an administrative
assistant but has been fortunate to have the
assistance of Cara Blackwater as a summer
student and has remained with the Project
in a non paid practicum position from the
U of L addiction studies program. Cara has
provided the much need support to move
the Prescription Drug Project forward. In
addition the Project has received positive
support and formed partnerships with a
number of community agencies such as
FSCC, Kainai Children Services, Social
Development, Kainai Wellness , Dr.
Tailfeathers and Dr. Christenson.
For instance in the summer months we
were able to partner with Children Services
and pay the registration fees for 41 at risk
children to attend day camps. In addition
Dr. Christenson has supported the Project
to implement a follow up contact process
with the Suboxone clients that will assist
TSINIKSSINI øctober 2015
with identifying programs and services
this target group requires in their recovery
process.
Dr. Tailfeathers is now providing
Suboxone treatment therapy in the
Standoff community and the Project would
like to implement this same process with
Dr. Tailfeathers patients. To ensure all
individuals have equal access to programs
and services available in the community.
The Prescription Drug Project does not
provide direct counselling services as these
services are offered by Kainai Wellness
who have addiction counsellors and mental
health therapists on staff. The Project
provides referral services only.
Future Direction: Despite the fentanyl /
oxy 80 crisis overwhelming presence in
the community the Project has been able
to find an optimistic approach in assisting
in the recovery process. Currently the
Project is in the process of implementing
a Healthy Relationships Program targeting
the Suboxone clients and the Project
Child Recovery program for children
ages 6 to 12 who have been exposed
to trauma, substance abuse, grief etc.
this project is through partnering with
the YWCA, the elementary schools,
Children Services, Victim Services,
Blood Tribe Police community liaison,
etc. In addition strengthening the current
services, developing and partnering with
other services in the community to ensure
program development is appropriate and
sustainable for community members and
ensure services are not being duplicated.
Again, the direction for the Project is
facilitated by the Core Group, however; the
Project is striving in creating relationships
with the community members in need of
the services to address the addiction issues
from a community perspective.
The Project is looking for volunteers to
assist with the challenge of creating the
need for on-going Awareness activities,
peer support groups, healing and recovery
groups the distribution of prevention
materials and providing coordination
of volunteers.
Through volunteerism
community members in recovery find
support and helps with the boredom many
are challenged with while waiting to enter
treatment. I would also like to acknowledge
Pam Little Bear who volunteers her time to
keep the community abreast of the deadly
fentanyl/oxy80 destruction the community
has endured.
In closing as a community we have to
remember that there is strength in numbers
and the more the community is involved
this will foster a recovery process for the
individuals, families and the community
as a whole. Anyone that has an interest
in volunteering, or have suggestions, or
would like to get involved, please drop
us an email at [email protected] by
calling the at 403-737- 8740.
Chase and the core group continue the work in seeking solutions to creating awareness on drugs.
Submitted by Gayle Chase, Prescription Drug Strategy Project Coordinator
15
TWO BLOOD PHYSICIANS HONORED BY U OF L
TOWARD SIGNIFICANT WORK IN SAVING LIVES
Two physicians from the Blood Tribe were
recently recognized for their tireless work
in combatting the deadly drug fentanyl that
has claimed a number of lives. Dr. Esther
Tailfeathers and Dr. Sue Christensen both
received the University of Lethbridge
Friends of Health Sciences Award on
October 15, 2015, before a large audience
of well-wishers, family and friends.
Dr. Chris Hosgood, Dean, Faculty of Health
Sciences, master of ceremonies, began
by stating the University of Lethbridge
rests on traditional Blackfoot territory
and welcomed, among other guests, the
First Nations, Metis and Inuit people in
attendance.
Upon receiving their recognition, the
Friends of Health Sciences annually
recognizes an individual or an agency that
exemplifies outstanding support of the
mission and goals of the Faculty. This award
is intended to recognize those who have
directly or indirectly made a distinguished
contribution to health education and
research in the Faculty of Health Sciences.
The U of L provided comments of both
recipients.
Dr. Easther Tailfeathers is a member of the
Kainai Nation and a practicing physician in
Cardston. Dr. Tailfeathers began to sound
the alarm about significant increases in
fentanyl use in the region in 2014. The
problem rapidly gained momentum in
early 2015, with the local emergency room
treating up to 3 overdoses a day and the
number of overdose deaths increasing. In
March 2015, Kainai declared a local state
of emergency. During this time of crisis,
Dr. Tailfeathers rallied with community
members to work quickly and effectively
with government bodies and local officials
to organize the delivery of overdose
prevention kits to the community. Kainai
Nation is the first Aboriginal community
in Alberta to dispense naloxone kits. Harm
reduction strategies can attract criticism,
yet Dr. Tailfeathers took on this challenge,
leading several successful naloxone
training sessions open to all community
members in Kainai and empowering the
community to take charge of the problem.
Dr. Sue Christenson is a member of Kainai
Nation and has been a practicing physician
in the community at the Lavern Clinic. In
the wake of the fentanyl crisis that began in
southern Alberta that began in 2014-15, Dr.
Christenson sought out a license to prescribe
Suboxone, an opiate replace similar to
methadone that effectively reduces drug
cravings and gives fentanyl addicts the best
chance of recovery. She is now working
with almost 70 patients looking to get off
fentanyl and other Opiold-based drugs. She
says that it is rewarding as a physician to
have access to a drug that can relieve the
suffering of those struggling with these
difficult addictions.
Both physicians gratefully accepted the
awards and thanked everyone for their
support and encouragement.
Dr. Esther Tailfeathers shares gratitude.
Dr. Sue Christenson addresses the audience after receiving award.
Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI øctober 2015
FIRE AT BLOOD TRIBE FORAGE PROCESSING PLANT
DESTROYS STORAGE FACILITY AND TIMOTHY HAY
All that remains is twisted metal and cinder
after a fire completely destroyed a storage
shed and its contents of Timothy Hay on
October 9, 2015, at the Forage Processing
Plant on the Blood reserve.
A text was sent to BTAP Manager Calvin
Cross Child just before midnight from
security informing him of the fire at shed
number 3, which housed Timothy hay in
the facility that had the capacity to hold
5000 metric tons of hay. According to
Cross Child, approximately $2 million of
hay product was destroyed in the fire, with
the storage facility being valued at over
$1 million. The shed was adjacent to the
processing facility.
The fire started out small, but the nearest
fire department was 20 minutes away. The
Blood Tribe Fire Department Chief Oscar
Cotton, with the help of Fort Macleod,
Lethbridge, and Nobleford fire departments
could not battle the fire that had turned into
a raging inferno. The Fire departments
attacked the fire very aggressively and were
able to contain and control it, preventing
any further damage to the surrounding
buildings.
“The fire was so scary, that’s the lifeline of
our operations; the flagship of BTAP is the
Processing Plant,” said Cross Child.
The Blood Tribe Foraging Plant is a
certified Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Facility that exports Timothy and Alfalfa
Hay into the international markets. BTAP
is a primary producer group that is owned
and controlled by the Blood Tribe and
Blood Tribe members.
According to BTAP General Manger
Calvin Cross Child, no comment could
be made as to the cause of the fire, as it is
under investigation by fire officials who
have deemed the alleged source of the fire
suspicious.
Fire crew stand outside burning storage shed at Forage Processing Plant.
17
Story by Tracy Weasel Fat
TSINIKSSINI October 2015
GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY TO BEGIN NEXT
PHASE OF CONSTRUCTION ON GROCERY STORE
Rob Crow, Ec Dev Director, is pictured here with Blood Elders and Councillors at groundbreaking.
The Blood Tribe Economic Development
department and committee performed a
groundbreaking ceremony on the south
side the Kainai Industries building on
October 15, 2015, in preparation for the
Kainai Food Market slated for its grand
opening next year. Prior to the ceremony,
elder Bruce Wolf Child offered a prayer
while Camille Russell, Norbert Blackwater
Sr., Harvey Sweetgrass, Corolla Calf Robe
and Kainai Jr. Princess Michelle Eagle
Plume were seated as head table guests.
Rob
Crow,
Director,
Economic
Development, said the project required
careful planning in preparation for the
launch of the business venture.
“We began the project in 2014, but its been
in discussion for many years,” he said. “We
went through our survey and we had three
main questions in mind: one, if the need
for a grocery store exists; the second, if
the members would support it, and three,
if a grocery store would be a social and
economically viable project. So, based on
our feasibility study and business plan,
everything came out with a resounding
yes.”
The planned Kainai Food Market will be
housed in a 12,000 sq. ft. building on 1.5
acres of land that will be easily accessible
to the main highway. The Grocery People,
a subsidiary of the Federated Co-op, are
the suppliers and will offer food items and
products including: meat & deli, fruit and
vegetables, bakery goods, dairy, groceries,
household goods and personal care items.
The Kainai Food Market will employ four
management personnel and up to 20 fulland part-time employees.
Blood Tribe Councilor Al Blackwater
shared in the festivities of the planned
grocery store.
“We have over 12,000 members and we
want to be able to capture that market,
rather than going off the reserve,” he
said. “We want to welcome our neighbors
surrounding the Blood reserve to shop at
the Kainai Food Market too.”
Among the partners in the initiative are
Blood Tribe Chief & Council, Economic
Development, Government of Alberta
Aboriginal Relations, Vision Quest and
The Grocery People.
After Economic Development committee
members and Blood Councilors Myron
Eagle Speaker and Frank Black Plume
shared their comments, the groundbreaking
began with a traditional ceremony to mark
the beginning of another era of tribal
investment.
The Blood Tribe Economic Development
will host an open house on October
29, 2015, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Kainai
Multipurpose building to discuss project
updates, contract opportunities and other
relevant topics.
Artist’s rendition of Kainai Marketplace
18
Story by Tom Russell
TSINIKSSINI øctober 2015
KAINAI CHILDRENS SERVICES BREAKING GROUND
TO BEGIN WORKING ON YOUTH WELLNESS CENTRE
The Kainai Children’s Services Corporation performed a ground-breaking ceremony on October 9, 2015, for the new
Blood Tribe Youth Wellness Centre which
is scheduled to open early in the new year.
The facility will replace the former youth
centre that was destroyed by fire on November 27, 2013. Blood elder Bruce Wolf
Child offered a prayer to begin the day’s
event.
Marcel Weasel Head, Chairman, KCSC,
said the direction the management is taking with regard to the programming once
the facility is complete and ready will be to
focus on a variety of topics geared to enhancing existing programming.
“We wanted something different because of the many social issues,” he said.
“Something that is going to address more
than drug and alcohol programs. We’re
all excited and looking forward to begin.”
The building will be approximately 4, 343
square feet on one main floor. The building
will include eight private bedrooms and
baths, a dining room and common area,
a fully equipped kitchen, four personal offices, a boardroom, reception and lobby
area, staff washroom and guest washroom
and a Ceremony room. The Centre will be
handicap accessible.
Michael Gros Ventre Boy, acting Project
Officer, said enhanced programming is a
direction planned once the facility is open.
“We’ve done a lot of research developing the curriculum,” he said. “We want to
improve the quality of service we provide
for the First Nations youth both locally
and across Canada. We want to help the
youth transition back into society.”
The Blood Tribe Youth Wellness Centre is
a program under the auspices of Kainaiwa
Children Services Corporation. The Centre
itself is designed as a residential setting
to house First Nations Youth between the
ages of 12 to 17 who are experiencing the
traumatic difficulties that stem from addictive behaviors. The BTYWC program
curriculum is strength based; utilizing KAINAYSSINI (Elder Declaration) in providing
holistic treatment methods, combined
with traditional customs and current best
practices. Along with the twelve core functions of treatment, youth at the centre
will also incorporate evidence based treatment approaches such as the Equine Assisted Learning (aka Horse Therapy) that
supports the effectiveness of various substance abuse treatment approaches for
adolescents in their healing journey.
The ceremonial shovel pictured here.
Other guest speakers included Shannon
Soop, CEO, and Wolf Child performed a
name-giving ceremony for Michael Gros
Ventre Boy. The emcee for the event was
Tony Delaney while Bullhorn singers performed ceremonial songs.
Story by
Tracy Weasel Fat/Tom Russell
Photos: Tracy Weasel Fat
The Blood Tribe Youth Wellness Centre
will be located at the former KATC site, just
East of Cardston, Alberta. The Project was
designed by ATCO Sustainable Communities Inc.
Elders and community members gather at the ground-breaking site of the Youth Wellness Centre.
19